HMX Canglan V2 vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Canglan V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Green offer two distinctly different experiences tailored to varying preferences. The HMX Canglan V2 is celebrated for its thocky linear feel, providing a smooth and light keystroke that enthusiasts find deeply satisfying. Its carefully engineered materials and improved molding techniques create a unique deep sound signature, making it an ideal choice for those who seek a quieter typing experience without sacrificing tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green switch features a clicky design, delivering an audible and tactile feedback that many typists and gamers crave for enhanced responsiveness. This switch is often preferred for its satisfying "click" sounds, which can provide both enjoyment and assurance of actuation. The choice between these two switches ultimately hinges on whether you prioritize a smooth, silent experience or a pronounced auditory feedback with each keystroke. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
65g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T2
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Canglan V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Green, a clear distinction arises between their top housing materials. The Canglan V2 utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for its softer composition compared to more rigid plastics. This characteristic allows the nylon to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper, rounder sound profile that many typists find satisfying. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Green features a polycarbonate top housing, which is considerably stiffer and produces a crisper, higher-pitched sound. The choice of polycarbonate not only enhances sound clarity but also provides translucency that is advantageous for RGB lighting, making it particularly appealing for visually dynamic setups. Thus, users interested in a more subdued audio experience may favor the Canglan V2, while those seeking a sharper sound and RGB compatibility will likely prefer the Dustproof Green.
Both switches share a significant feature in their bottom housing; both the Canglan V2 and the Dustproof Green utilize nylon, a material that delivers similar acoustic outcomes. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a fuller sound profile, absorbing sound vibrations that result in the overall auditory experience of the switch. This means that both switches will share a commonality in terms of the deeper sound they produce when keys bottom out. Consequently, even though the top housings differ and may affect the sound during key release, the nylon bottom housing grounds both switches in a similar auditory sensation. This dual housing approach suggests that while sound profiles may diverge with the top housing material, the nylon bottom ensures users receive a satisfying tactile experience.
In summation, the contrasting materials in the top housing of the Canglan V2 and Dustproof Green—nylon versus polycarbonate—provide diversifying sound textures that cater to different user preferences. The Canglan V2’s choice of nylon softens the overall typing sound while delivering a deeper auditory experience. On the other side, the Dustproof Green’s polycarbonate introduces a brighter, crisper acoustic signature, enhancing clarity and brightness. However, both switches' nylon bottom housing unifies their sound profile in terms of depth and fullness, ensuring a comfortable typing feel regardless of the top housing. This interplay between materials highlights the nuanced approach in mechanical keyboard design, where user experience can be finely tailored through careful selection of housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, there is a noticeable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Canglan V2, with its actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, is classified as a lighter switch, making it ideal for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, especially during extended sessions at work or gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Green switch demands a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial, resistance-filled feel when typing. As a result, users who favor a lighter touch would find the Canglan V2 more suitable, while those who appreciate a stronger tactile experience would likely prefer the Outemu Green. Overall, this contrast highlights a clear choice based on personal preference between lighter and heavier actuation and bottom out forces in mechanical switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, it is clear that the Canglan V2 has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, whereas the Dustproof Green is slightly longer at 4 mm. This 0.5 mm difference can influence the typing experience significantly; those who favor shorter travel distances, like the Canglan V2, may appreciate the quicker responsiveness ideal for gaming, while the longer travel of the Dustproof Green may provide a more traditional and hearty typing feel, which some users prefer. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference for either a snappier response or a more substantial key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Canglan V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Canglan V2 for $2.99.
The Outemu Dustproof Green comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
The HMX Canglan V2 switch is celebrated for its deep, thocky sound signature, which adds a rich auditory element to the typing experience. This is attributed to its carefully selected materials and refined molding techniques, which work in harmony to produce a satisfying acoustic profile that many enthusiasts find appealing. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Green switch's sound characteristics are not well-defined in the provided information, leaving a gap in understanding how it compares. However, it’s important to note that the final sound of any switch can vary significantly based on the keyboard it is mounted on and the type of keycaps used.
When considering tactile feedback, the Canglan V2 stands out for offering a smooth and light feel during key presses, which contributes to a fluid typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue over long sessions. The specifics of the feel for the Outemu Dustproof Green switch are not detailed, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison. It would be essential for newcomers to test the Dustproof Green themselves to determine if it provides satisfactory tactile feedback.
In summary, while the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch shines with its rich sound and smooth, light feel, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch's qualities remain largely unspecified, leaving some uncertainty. For users looking for a deeper auditory experience and a pleasurable typing sensation, the Canglan V2 is a compelling choice. Ultimately, personal preference plays a critical role, and trying both switches in real-world scenarios is the best way to determine which aligns with your typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the type of experience you’re seeking. If you prefer a lighter switch that offers a smooth keystroke with a satisfying thocky sound, then the Canglan V2 is an excellent option for you. Its lower bottom-out force of 48 grams makes it ideal for rapid typing or gaming where quick key actuations are beneficial. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile feedback and an auditory click that adds a layer of engagement to your typing experience, the Outemu Dustproof Green should be your go-to. Its heavier actuation force of 80 grams can provide you with a more deliberate typing experience, which is often preferred by those who appreciate the tactile response associated with clicky switches. Ultimately, consider how these factors align with your personal preferences in typing style and the contexts in which you’ll be using your keyboard, and you’ll find the perfect fit between these two distinctive switches.
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